Catalysts of the game - Top 5 midfielders today

“The Greatest Ability in Business is to get along with others and to influence their actions” – John Hancock

An actor can only perform at his best when he has a great chemistry with the co-actors.

An engine is the driving force behind every car’s success.

Similarly, a goal, every attack and the final touch by the striker is often assisted by a midfielder.

They are the brilliant catalysts of the game, and without them no team or prolific striker can dare to attack in the opposition’s territory.

Football has seen some wonderful midfielders who have completely changed the shape of a given match. From Zinedine Zidane to Frank Lampard, we have seen them all, respected their skills and bowed down to their mastery. However, the current football doesn’t have a Zidane and even Lampard isn’t at its peak. Neither do we have a highly dominant Beckham nor we have the extraordinary Sir Bobby Charlton. Puskas, Gento, Zico, Platini and Di Stefano playing any more. Yet, we are those lucky fans present in the stadiums and millions of viewers tuned into television, who witness the great and prolific magic by the wizards – the midfielders of today!

So, with past legends gone and future legends in store for us, who do we believe in? Who do we respect? Who do we call “the best midfielders” today? Here is a comprehensive list of the 5 best midfielders who grace the beautiful game today.

5. Bastian Schweinsteiger

The German sensation who currently plays for Bayern Munich, is one of the best central midfielders of all time. Germany can proudly induct him in the Hall of Fame. The German has featured in 97 matches for the national side with 23 goals and 32 assists. He has led Bayern Munich to as many as 5 Bundesliga titles and 9 domestic cups. 2010 and 2012 saw his side reach the finals of the Champions League but eventually losing the bout on both occasion. However, the number 7 for Germany has been one of the most iconic midfielders and his dynamic skills are still considered to be one of the best in the world.

4. Xabi Alonso

The 4th spot goes to the Los Blancos’ number 22. His place was highly contested with Cesc Fabregas but it ended on a winning note for Alonso. His ability to dictate pace, provide great long balls, sharp accuracy and wide range of assists have helped both Real Madrid and his national side – Spain. Alonso, who previously played for Liverpool, was a big success in England too. Alonso has also been featuring in FIFA Team of the Year since last three years. With his exceptional qualities, Alonso has brought glories to whichever side he has been a part of – Liverpool, Madrid and Spain single-handedly.

3. Mesut Ozil

The young wizard from Germany is at 3rd position in this list. Ozil has tasted success much faster than any current player. Featuring in the 2010 World Cup, followed by the 2012 Euro Cup, this great midfielder earned much prestige and is currently well reputed even in Spain where he plays for Real Madrid. He is hailed as the second most valuable player in Real Madrid after Ronaldo, and the die-hard Madrid fans know what Ozil means for them. He has 109 assists and 40 goals in his club career so far, which promises only one thing – great future!

2. Xavi Hernandez

Quite an obvious choice for the runner up is the heart and soul of Spain – Xavi Hernandez. 6 La Liga titles, 3 Champions League titles and 10 other domestic and international club titles are testimony to his club achievements. Along with that, he has a World Cup title won in 2010 and 2 European titles won in 2008 and 2012. He has also been the finalist in Ballon d’Or 3 times. He is known to hold the ball like no other and play sharp possession football. With more than 180 assists and successful passes, he is not only known as not just one of the best midfielders but also one of the best footballer today.

1. Andres Iniesta

The best midfielder today, who won the UEFA Best Player in Europe 2012 and finished 3rd in the Ballon d’Or 2012, is Andres Iniesta. He is currently the best at his job, and with his consistent performances, there in none who can challenge him for his spot. Many players and fans worldwide see him as the real reason behind Messi’s success. Iniesta however, remains ever so humble. Andres with his super speed dribbling, unbelievable passing, great long balls, splendid assists and great finish, is respected by each and every opposition today. When he is not at his best, he still provides a magical moment every now and then. When he is in the form of his life, there is only one thing that you can do – simply watch him rule the game.

The list comprises of 3 Spaniards and 2 Germans and sends a strong message – Europe is certainly the destination where we find the best midfielders in the world.